INTRODUCTION: Care at verified trauma centers has improved survival and functional outcomes, yet determining the appropriate location of potential trauma centers is often driven by factors other than optimizing system-level patient care. Given the importance of transport time in trauma, we analyzed trauma transport patterns (TTP) in a rural state lacking an organized trauma system and implemented a geographic information system (GIS) to inform potential future trauma center locations.
STUDY DESIGN: Data were collected on trauma ground transport over a three-year period (2014-2016) from the Statewide Incident Reporting Network (SIREN) database. GIS mapping and location-allocation modeling of the best-fit facility for trauma center verification was computed using TTPs, population density, road network layout, and 60 minute EMS transport time based on current transport protocols.
RESULTS: Location-allocation modeling identified two regional facilities positioned to become the next verified trauma centers. The proportion of the Vermont population without access to trauma center care within 60 minutes would be reduced from the current 29.68% to 5.81% if the identified facilities become verified centers.
CONCLUSIONS: Through geospatial mapping and location-allocation modeling, we were able to identify gaps and suggest optimal trauma center locations to maximize population coverage in a rural state lacking a formal, organized trauma system. These findings could inform future decision-making for targeted capacity improvement and system design that emphasizes equitable access to trauma center care in Vermont.
Language: en
Keywords
Geographic Information System; Location-Allocation; Trauma System; Verification